Patagioenas nigrirostris
The Short-billed Pigeon (Patagioenas nigrirostris) is a strikingly inconspicuous resident of humid Neotropical forests, recognized by its uniformly dark purplish-chestnut plumage and, most notably, its distinctively short, jet-black bill, which gives the species its common name. Measuring about 29-32 cm (11-12.5 in) in length and weighing between 160-220 grams, its compact form is complemented by bright red legs and a bare red orbital ring around its dark eye, which stands out against its oth...
This species primarily inhabits humid evergreen and semi-deciduous broadleaf forests, forest edges, and mature secondary growth, typically found from lowlands up to elevations of 1500 meters, occasionally ranging higher.
The diet of the Short-billed Pigeon is almost exclusively frugivorous, primarily consisting of small-seeded fruits such as figs (*Ficus* spp.), mistletoe berries, and the fruits of various palms, gleaned directly from trees.
The Short-billed Pigeon is generally a shy and inconspicuous bird, often observed alone or in pairs, foraging quietly within the mid-canopy and subcanopy of fruiting trees during daylight hours. Its foraging strategy involves deliberate gleaning of fruits directly from branches, occasionally maki...
The Short-billed Pigeon is a widespread resident throughout much of Central America and extends into northwestern South America. Its breeding range originates in southern Mexico, specifically from Veracruz, northern Oaxaca, and Chiapas, and continues southward through the Pacific and Caribbean sl...
Least Concern
- The Short-billed Pigeon's most distinguishing feature is its disproportionately short, jet-black bill, which is unique among its *Patagioenas* relatives and gives it its common name. - Despite its relatively large size, it is remarkably inconspicuous, often remaining hidden in the dense canopy ...